Both players are diminutive attackers, and with Insigne touted to enjoy a breakthrough season at the San Paolo, Pandev had compared their playing styles.

But the Italy Under-21 international, who is set for more first-team action this term following the departure of Ezequiel Lavezzi, has explained that it is not realistic to liken him to the majestic Blaugrana forward.

"Am I like Messi?" Insigne is quoted as saying in La Republica.

"I thank Goran for comparing me to Messi but let's not exaggerate. It is better to avoid such comparisons. Messi is extraordinary, even if personally I still think the greatest player who ever lived was Diego Maradona."

After spending the 2011-12 season on loan in Serie B under the tutelage of Zdenek Zeman, the starlet revealed how useful the now Roma coach has been in his development.

"At first I was sceptical of him, but ZdenekZeman helped me a great deal at Pescara last season and I grew enough to earn my chance at Napoli," he explained.

"I have always supported this club and would like to one day become a symbol of Napoli."

Who do you think should be Goal.com International's World Player of the Week this week? Leave your nomination in the comments section of THIS article between 10:00 every Sunday and 11:00CET every Monday. We will include some of the best suggestions in our winners piece.